Recommended: Shadows of Valor by Elsie Park

Goodreads Summary

On the surface, Graywall is content and booming. Lord Shaufton, who presides over the city, is a fine ruler. The poor are well-cared for, the area is popular, and morale is high—but within Graywall’s roots, something dark is stirring. This darkness threatens to overpower the once-peaceful town, until a mysterious figure appears: The Shadow.

As much a figure of fear to the unruly as legend to the innocent, The Shadow is an enforcer of justice and aid to the King. Due to an outrageous export tax set by King Edward, smuggling has tainted the kingdom, so The Shadow is sent to hunt the smugglers down. Contrary to legend, The Shadow is simply a man known as Sir Calan who, although talented and just, struggles to keep his dark thoughts of revenge from becoming ruthless action.

Due to sheer coincidence, The Shadow learns of a deadly plot against Lord Shaufton on a journey to Graywall. Now, he must enter a pseudo courtship with Lord Shaufton’s daughter under his original guise of Sir Calan, all while old emotions are stirred by the lovely Elsbeth, Lord Shaufton’s niece. Elsbeth, it seems, is the only woman who can heal his troubled soul, but she has a story of her own. What transpires is a glorious tale full of deceit, greed, inner struggles, betrayal, and most of all—love.

My Thoughts

After spending three days sharing a booth with author Elsie Park at FantasyCon, listening to her pitch her novel, I had to buy it 🙂 And I’m so glad I did.

This historic romance is a total delight to read. The characters are instantly likable, the romance sweet and steamy, and the story interesting to the last word. Elsbeth and Calan have great depth, with the right balance of flaws, strengths, and growth; they are well matched. And I really loved their romance! SHADOWS OF VALOR is the perfect escape read – light, romantic, and enjoyable.

CONTENT NOTE: CLEAN! Another benefit of this book.

This is Elsie with Brady Knighton, the model used for her cover. He showed up at FantasyCon in the full amour used for the book. Very cool!